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The Walt Disney Company is no longer interested in building its office complex in Florida. It has recently scrapped its plan to set up its $1 billion campus in the said state as its feud with the territory’s Governor Ron DeSantis continues to escalate.
The move will also mean the loss of 2,000 jobs for the locals. Although it is apparent that the company’s squabble with DeSantis has something to do with the decision, Disney cited changing business conditions as the reason why it will not push through with its plan, as per CNN Business.
Disney revealed the changes on Thursday, May 18, through a memo that was provided by the company’s spokesperson. It was noted that the decision came at a time when Disney is openly bickering with the Florida governor, who is also set to join the 2024 GOP presidential race.
In response to the company’s pull out, DeSantis’ spokesperson said they were not surprised by the move. He suggested that they have anticipated the cancellation of the project due to its financial straits, falling stock price, and market cap.
Disney is also trying to deal with the massive strike of writers and the challenging advertising environment today. It has also revealed job cuts that will affect about 7,000 workers as it takes steps to reduce costs.
“It is unfortunate that Disney will not be moving forward with construction of the Lake Nona campus,” Mayor Jerry L. Demings of Orange County, said in a statement regarding Disney’s cancellation. “However, these are the consequences when there isn’t an inclusive and collaborative work environment between the state of Florida and the business community. We will continue to work closely with our valued partners at Disney.”
Florida Democratic Party chairman, Nikki Fried, blasted DeSantis for the turn of events. “DeSantis has single-handedly and decidedly made Florida an anti-business state,” he said. “Unfortunately, today’s news is not a shock for those of us who have been living through his reign of terror, and Floridians are already paying a high price.”
